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Radiations in Space Can Trigger Alzheimer’s in Astronauts

A new research conducted originally on mice has suggested that radiations in space can trigger Alzheimer's disease in astronauts.

The study has raised serious concern about the future missions into space. According to the findings of the study, the cosmic radiations can potentially harm brains of people in space and can be cause of serious brain problems in them.

This is first study of its kind which revealed some kind of link between space radiations and cognitive problems. It was also asserted by the study that shower of dangerous particles in the space hits the astronauts constantly and affects them adversely.

The longer astronauts stay in space, greater is the harm posed by these radiations on them. The results of the study raised worries about the NASA's future missions to asteroids and Mars. NASA is planning a mission to an asteroid in 2025 and to Mars in 2035.

Scientist explained that radiations lead to neural degeneration in astronauts and adversely affects working of their brains. It can lead to decline in mental alertness over many years. "This study shows for the first time that exposure to radiation levels equivalent to a mission to Mars could produce cognitive problems and speed up changes in the brain", said Kerry O'Banion, an Author in the study.